1955 Austin A 55 vs. 1978 Toyota Tercel
To start off, 1978 Toyota Tercel is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Austin A 55. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Austin A 55 would be higher. At 1,489 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Austin A 55 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Austin A 55 weights approximately 235 kg more than 1978 Toyota Tercel.
Because 1955 Austin A 55 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1955 Austin A 55. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Toyota Tercel, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. 1978 Toyota Tercel has automatic transmission and 1955 Austin A 55 has manual transmission. 1955 Austin A 55 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Toyota Tercel will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Austin A 55 | 1978 Toyota Tercel | |
| Make | Austin | Toyota |
| Model | A 55 | Tercel |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 0 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2510 mm |
